Researchers at NREL and EPFL achieved record efficiencies of 32.8% and 35.9% for dual-junction and triple-junction solar cells, respectively. The high-efficiency cells could reduce the cost of solar energy by up to 45 cents per watt.
A nationwide study found that women with PCOS have a four times greater risk of developing type 2 diabetes and are diagnosed at an average age of 31, compared to those without PCOS.
Researchers have discovered a new immunotherapy combination that effectively kills cancer cells, with promising results for treating aggressive breast and rare pediatric muscle cancer. The combination uses existing cancer drugs in a whole new way to stimulate the immune system.
A team of researchers has discovered a network of genes and genetic regulatory elements in the lining of the intestines that remains remarkably consistent across 420 million years of evolution. This conserved genetic signature is linked to various human diseases, including inflammatory bowel diseases, diabetes, and obesity.
Scientists mapped B-cell clone populations across the human body, discovering two broad networks that influence immune responses. The findings provide a new foundation for infectious disease research and could lead to tissue-specific immune monitoring assays.
Scientists identified network inefficiencies in six-month-old infants who later developed autism, with these abnormalities linked to severity of symptoms at 24 months. This study brings us closer to understanding the pathology of autism and developing effective interventions.
A new study by UC Santa Barbara researchers found that mothers exposed to very high levels of pesticides during pregnancy experienced increased risk of adverse outcomes, including a 5-9% increase in birth weight and preterm births. The study analyzed data from over 500,000 single births between 1997 and 2011.
A team of researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine has identified a type of neuron in the brains of mice that promotes sleep by turning off wake-promoting neurons. Lhx6-expressing cells play a central role in regulating both rapid eye movement and nonrapid eye movement sleep, with potential applications for treating various sleep disorders.
Researchers found a high incidence of cervical ribs in woolly rhino fossils, suggesting a vulnerable condition that may have contributed to their decline. The study suggests monitoring modern rhinos' vertebrae could indicate the level of extinction risk, highlighting the importance of conservation efforts.
A new method uses high-powered lasers to directly break down pollutants in contaminated soil, showing promise as a cheaper and more efficient decontamination technique. The process heats up the pollutant locally, fragmenting it into smaller, safer molecules.
A new study analyzing data from the Swedish Coronary Angiography and Angioplasty Registry found no significant benefits of pre-hospital antiplatelet therapy in STEMI patients. The study suggests that pre-treatment may even pose a risk, particularly for patients with contraindications to antithrombotic therapy.
A large study found that high carbohydrate intake is linked to increased total mortality and non-cardiovascular mortality outcomes, while high fat intake is associated with lower risk. The study suggests that limiting total fat consumption may not improve health in populations.
A second Autonomous Terrestrial Laser Scanning system will be installed on Greenland's Helheim Glacier to monitor ice loss rates and improve sea level rise predictions. The new data will help understand glacier dynamics and variability, enabling better estimates of future sea level rise.
Researchers at Aalto University and the University of Helsinki have developed a method to improve metacognition using magnetic stimulation. The study showed that transcranial magnetic stimulation targeting the prefrontal cortex can enhance test subjects' ability to evaluate their performance in a tactile working memory task.
The CHANGE-DAPT trial found that following contemporary guidelines for dual anti-platelet therapy may not be preferable to older guidelines in reducing ischemic events, but increases major bleeding risk. Newer-generation drug-eluting stents have shifted the risk-benefit balance of ticagrelor in ACS patients undergoing PCI.
Research shows smooth-coated otters adopt a 'copy when young' strategy to solve puzzles, with young otters learning faster than parents. This social learning behavior may help improve reintroduction programs for endangered otter species.
A study by University of California, Riverside researchers found that two Bahamian songbird species likely became extinct due to habitat loss caused by rising sea levels and a warmer climate. The birds' habitats were pine grasslands found in cooler regions, which were lost when the islands became more tropical.
A large-scale study of 135,335 individuals across 18 countries found that a moderate intake of fruit, vegetables, and legumes can significantly reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and death. The study's findings indicate that consuming an average of 3-4 servings per day is as beneficial as higher amounts in reducing total mortality.
A study led by Columbia University Medical Center researchers found that boosting blood levels of osteocalcin reverses age-related memory loss in mice. Osteocalcin binds to a receptor called Gpr158 in the brain's memory center, and restoring youthful levels of the hormone improves cognitive function.
Research reveals that stingless bee queens rearing high rates of diploid males are sacrificed in up to 20 days, threatening the colony's survival. The emergence of these male bees with both paternal and maternal genetic material leads to reduced reproductive chances for the colony.
Researchers have found that bacterial cell wall constituents can cause abnormal clotting, leading to inflammation in Type 2 diabetes. A new treatment option involves using LPS-binding protein (LBP) to reverse this process, offering a new approach to treating the disease.
Researchers from Northeastern University have discovered that tiny carbon nanotubes can efficiently remove salt from seawater, offering a potential solution to global water scarcity. The novel system outperforms existing methods, with the potential to increase accessible drinking water from 0.007 percent to a higher percentage.
A long-term follow-up study found that many patients who received instructions to stop smoking before cosmetic surgery were more likely to quit or reduce their cigarette use. The study suggests that targeted messaging with specific examples of the negative effects of smoking may be an effective way to encourage smokers to quit.
A six-year study of nearly 1 million people found that autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and inflammatory bowel diseases increase cardiovascular risk and mortality. The study's results highlight the need for better tools to predict cardiovascular events in these populations.
Researchers explored non-thermal atmospheric pressure plasma treatment to improve natural dyeing of leather, reducing environmental impacts. The study successfully demonstrated the activation of functional groups on goat hide surfaces, leading to significant improvements in coloration with commercially available natural dyes.
Researchers at Georgia State University discovered that a process called inverted-region electron transfer contributes to the high efficiency of solar energy conversion in photosynthesis. This mechanism can be used to design new and better types of artificial solar cells.
Researchers analyzed 9,000 proteins in bowel cancer cells to identify networks driving the disease. The study found that proteins can predict drug responses and suggests personalized medicine for patients.
Scientists at Case Western Reserve University have discovered that tiny holes and cracks in materials can control electric charge through friction. The findings could lead to better adhesion for agricultural pesticides, paints, and other applications, while also preventing damage from static electricity.
Georgina Stooke-Vaughan is investigating the mechanical development of the eye in zebrafish using a novel fluid-based method. The study aims to understand how cells divide, move and position themselves to form the complex organ.
Researchers have directly observed high-speed sub-microsecond ferroelastic domain switching in Pb(Zr0.4Ti0.6)O3 thin films, paving the way for ultrafast electromechanical switches and sensors. This finding is crucial for the development of high-performance piezoMEMS devices.
The HCM-EVIDENCE study validates ESC recommendations for predicting and preventing sudden cardiac death in patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. The risk prediction tool, HCM Risk-SCD, accurately distinguishes between high- and low-risk patients, with good agreement between predicted and actual SCD rates.
A Japanese study questioned the benefit of treat-to-target intensive statin therapy in patients with diabetic retinopathy, finding no significant reduction in cardiovascular events. However, subanalysis showed that reaching an LDL cholesterol target of less than 70 mg/dL significantly reduced primary endpoint incidence.
The Army-led Micro Autonomous Systems and Technology (MAST) Collaborative Technology Alliance has demonstrated futuristic robotic research platforms, showcasing state-of-the-art benchmarks. The program aims to develop small autonomous robots for collaborative operation with large systems in complex environments.
A study found that dark chocolate enriched with extra virgin olive oil is associated with increased endothelial progenitor cells and decreased carnitine levels, leading to improved cardiovascular health. The addition of natural polyphenols from olive oil also increased high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and decreased blood pressure.
Researchers from Brigham and Women's Hospital are set to present groundbreaking findings on cardiovascular treatment at the ESC Congress 2017. These studies, including CANTOS and RE-DUAL PCI, will provide new insights into the effectiveness of anti-inflammatory therapy and dual antithrombotic therapy in patients with atrial fibrillation.
A study of Russian cosmonauts found significant changes in their bodies due to spaceflight, affecting all major cell types and organs. The research revealed that the human body lacks mechanisms to rapidly adapt to such extreme changes, leading to widespread physiological responses.
A new prediction tool has been developed to identify elderly patients at greatest risk of acute myocardial infarction during Asian dust storms. The tool, based on a simple scoring system, takes into account various pre-existing conditions and can help prevent AMI in high-risk patients.
Climate change creates extreme conditions that impact railway bridge maintenance, requiring new solutions to mitigate track deterioration and reduce carbon emissions. The study evaluates the effectiveness of eight mitigation measures, recommending elastic rail pads, soft baseplates, and under ballast mats for short-span bridges.
Researchers at Brigham Young University have developed a miniaturized mass spectrometer capable of analyzing chemicals with high sensitivity. This portable device has significant implications for applications such as detecting chemical weapons, explosives in airports, and forensic investigations.
A study by University of Warwick finds a previously overlooked section of gene fusion FGFR3-TACC3 worsens cancer cells. Preventing cell signalling from this fusion may not be effective in cancer treatment research.
A study by Michigan State University found that parents and siblings can improve their ability to communicate with special needs children using an online training program. The training provides interactive strategies for offering communication opportunities, commenting on activities, and waiting for responses. The researchers tested th...
Peter Vitiello receives NIH grant to investigate oxygen-sensitive molecules influencing lung growth in premature infants. The research aims to reduce the burden of lasting lung disease, which can have life-long effects.
Researchers at UNC School of Medicine have discovered a damaging cascade of events inside brain cells that contribute to Alzheimer's disease. The study shows that amyloid beta protein can trigger an inflammatory response in immune cells, leading to the formation of bead-like structures filled with abnormal tau protein.
A new study found that HPV vaccination rates are significantly lower among childhood cancer survivors compared to the general population. Most participants lacked a healthcare provider's recommendation, highlighting the need for increased communication and awareness about HPV vaccination.
A study found that inattentiveness is linked to worse academic performance up to 10 years later, even when accounting for intellectual ability. Inattentiveness can have significant adverse effects on the academic performance of children with and without ADHD.
A new species of crab with star-shaped tubercles has been discovered in Taiwan and the Philippines. The Pariphiculus stellatus crab's carapace and chelipeds feature pointy protrusions that change with age, giving it a unique appearance.
Researchers at UMass Amherst have characterized the functional dance of a protein-folding chaperone's interdomain linker. The study used computational techniques to simulate the movement of the linker and revealed its role in facilitating proper function, including binding sites for potential therapeutic targets.
A study found that at least 30-45% of elite athletes admitted to using banned doping substances or methods in the previous year. Biological tests only detected doping in 1-3% of competitors, suggesting a higher true rate of doping.
Researchers at IBS and KAIST found that YAP/TAZ promotes cytoskeleton remodeling and junction formation in endothelial cells, essential for normal as well as pathological angiogenesis. Overexpression of YAP/TAZ leads to excessive blood vessel growth, while removal results in vision impairment and internal bleeding.
The CAPTAF trial found that ablation of atrial fibrillation significantly improved quality of life and general health compared to antiarrhythmic drug therapy. Ablation was also shown to reduce symptoms and improve quality of life in patients with paroxysmal and persistent AF.
A study by Tufts University researchers found that Congress has no historical justification for preempting state and local sugar-sweetened beverage taxes. The authors argue that such preemption undermines local control and challenges the financial stability of local governments.
Scientists recommend reducing disease impacts on honeybees by limiting colony mixing and supporting natural bee behaviors. This approach could help reduce parasite transmission and promote disease resistance among the bees.
A new study found that at least 30-45% of athletes surveyed at top events acknowledged using banned doping techniques, while official biological tests only detected 0.5-3.6% of cases. The study used a randomized response method to ensure anonymity and honesty from respondents.
An international study of over 135000 people found that high carbohydrate diets were associated with a 28% higher risk of death compared to low carbohydrate diets. Diets high in total fat intake were linked to a lower risk of mortality, but rates of major cardiovascular events remained similar.
Case Western Reserve researchers refine an electrical nerve-block implant to treat asthma and heart failure, focusing on blocking unwanted nerve impulses in the autonomic nervous system. The technology aims to provide a reliable, rapid, and reversible nerve block as an alternative to surgery or drugs.
A study of nearly 400 preschool children found that only one adhered to the 5-2-1-0 guidelines for a full 24-hour period. The study suggests room for improvement in dietary intake, physical activity, and screen time among young children.
Researchers found patients with psoriasis covering 10% or more of their body surface area are at almost double the risk of death. The study used an objective measure of disease severity to analyze the relationship between psoriasis severity and mortality.
IMERG data show over 30 inches of rainfall in the Houston metro area, while Harvey dropped over 40 inches in southeastern Texas. The storm is expected to produce catastrophic flooding and life-threatening conditions in parts of Texas and Louisiana.
A new study by University of Missouri researcher Brett Johnson found that while people dislike extreme speech, there is less support for outright censorship, instead advocating for clear policies promoting healthy public discourse.
Researchers have designed a new kind of antibody that targets toxic protein structures common to Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and related conditions. The study demonstrates the effectiveness of these antibodies in removing toxic forms without triggering immune toxicity.